Development of Coupled Physicochemical and Biological Systems for In Situ Remediation of Mixed Perfluorinated Chemical and Chlorinated Solvent Groundwater Plumes
Abstract
Aqueous film foaming foams (AFFF) were widely used at Department of Defense (DoD) installations for fire fighter training exercises and fire response. Due to their stability at high temperature and amphiphilic properties, these foams contain per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), including perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS). Additionally, chlorinated solvents, such as tetrachloroethene (PCE) and trichloroethene (TCE), were commonly used for aircraft engine cleaning, paint removal, and degreasing metal parts. Thus, contaminated groundwater plumes at DoD sites often contain mixtures of chlorinated solvents and PFAS, both of which have stringent drinking water standards. Although bioremediation is commonly used to treat PCE and TCE, most PFAS are extremely recalcitrant to conventional thermal, chemical or biological treatments.The goals of this project were to develop coupled in situ remediation approaches that could be used to effectively treat groundwater plumes containing mixtures of PFAS and chlorinated ethenes, and to understand the potential synergies and limitations of these combined remedies.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Dec 01, 2023
- Accession Number
- AD1229786
Entities
People
- John D Fortner
- Kurt D. Pennell
- Natalie L Cápiro
Organizations
- Brown University